Why More Kenyan Men Are Choosing Cats Over Conventional Bachelor Life

A subtle but significant demographic shift is underway across urban Kenya, as an increasing number of single men embrace cats as companions, challenging traditional notions of masculinity and solitude. 

This emerging trend sees professionals in cities such as Nairobi, Nakuru, and Limuru adopting felines, not merely as pets, but as integral components of their daily lives. The phenomenon reflects evolving societal attitudes toward emotional expression, lifestyle preferences, and the quiet revolution of redefining what it means to be a man in modern Kenya.

The pattern counters historical perceptions where cats were often associated with women or families. Today, for many Kenyan men living alone, the presence of a cat provides a reassuring rhythm to their otherwise solitary existence. Shared feeding routines, quiet evenings punctuated by the soft glow of cat videos, and the gentle purr of a contented feline have become increasingly common rituals. These simple interactions offer a subtle yet meaningful counterbalance to the silence and emotional absence that often accompanies independence.

Joseph Muchiri, a 31-year-old businessman based in Nakuru, embodies this transformation. Finding his new home both liberating and emotionally isolating, he chose a cat as a companion. "I've had my Kenyan local breed cat for the last four years," Muchiri says. "Cats are smart, low-maintenance, and honestly, they're cute." Muchiri’s decision to adopt an adult male cat was deliberate, seeking a pet that matched his lifestyle. He acknowledges, "A super-energetic kitten bouncing off the walls wouldn’t work for me."

Muchiri’s preference for a male cat highlights a recurring theme among Kenya’s cat dads.

"My male cat is independent. One time, I left him alone at home for a whole month. When I got back, the bread on top of the fridge was gone, the toilet water was low, but he was still alive. Try doing that with a dog." 

Scientific evidence supports the emotional benefits of feline companionship. A 2019 study by Washington State University found that just ten minutes of petting a cat daily can significantly reduce levels of cortisol, a hormone associated with stress. The study, which involved 294 participants, revealed that even brief interactions with cats can have measurable positive effects on mental health. These findings resonate with the lived experiences of many pet owners.

The burgeoning popularity of cats among Kenyan men faces mixed societal perceptions. While some women view cat ownership as a sign of emotional maturity and caring, broader cultural narratives still associate cats with femininity. A 2020 study conducted by Colorado State and Boise State universities indicated that men pictured with cats in dating profiles are often perceived as less masculine and less desirable compared to those without pets. 

These findings suggest that while cats may offer emotional support, they do not necessarily enhance social capital in the dating world. Muchiri remains unconcerned by such stereotypes. "If someone thinks it's weird to own a cat, that’s probably not someone I’d want to date anyway," he says. 

For him, the intrinsic value of companionship outweighs societal expectations. "I’d be thrilled to marry someone who also has a pet. Having a pet just means you understand companionship on a different level."

William Papateti, a 27-year-old creative professional in Nairobi, echoes this sentiment. His journey into cat ownership began when he rescued two abandoned kittens. Although only one survived, the experience transformed his perspective. "Cats grow on you," he reflects. "You get one, and suddenly you understand the rhythm of their presence. When you don’t have one around, it feels like something’s missing."

For Papateti, the decision to keep a cat stems from a desire to infuse his living space with life and vitality. "Silence can get heavy. A cat brings movement, sound, and a bit of unpredictability. It changes the mood." His bond with his cat is marked by mutual understanding and subtle communication. "Over time, you start to read each other. You know when it’s hungry, when it’s annoyed, when something’s wrong. And it knows you too; when you’re angry, tired, drunk even."

Similar to Muchiri, Papateti prefers male cats, citing their temperament and independence. "Female cats can be introverted, but when they're on heat, they cry like a human baby. It’s unsettling. A male cat is quieter and more independent." His cat’s nocturnal habits have become integrated into his routine. "We mostly eat together at night. I give it one meal a day, omena, chicken feet, or chicken heads. Sometimes I cook omena and we share."

Despite his affection for his pet, Papateti maintains boundaries. He celebrates his cat's birthday annually with photos and treats. This balanced approach values companionship without equating it to human relationships. Ian Ogonji, a 27-year-old digital communications strategist based in Limuru, adopted two young cats, Lila and Moonlight, after moving into his own home. The bond, however, developed gradually. 

"The first few days, the cat was shivering. At first, I thought it was the cold, but I later figured out it was fear, a new environment, and new people." 

Over time, the cats adapted, following him around and becoming intertwined in his daily life. Ogonji’s experience demonstrates the transformative nature of pet ownership. "Before, I could just decide not to cook. Bread, tea, noodles, that was enough. But now, I have to think about the cats too. When I am buying food, I budget for them. When I am cooking, I cook for the three of us." Working remotely, he spends much of his time with his pets, monitoring their routines and tending to their wellbeing.

The rise of cat ownership among single Kenyan men mirrors broader cultural shifts. For men like Muchiri, Papapeti, and Ogonji, Cats offer a form of companionship that aligns with the rhythms of modern bachelor life.